During a recent government meeting, residents expressed deep concerns over proposed changes to rent control laws, particularly regarding a significant increase in rental prices for long-term tenants. Mary Andreka, a tenant, highlighted the potential impact of a proposed one-time increase of $1,750 on vacancy rates, which she argued disproportionately affects older tenants who have lived in the area for over a decade. She emphasized that many long-term residents are not financially prepared for such a steep increase, which she described as a 100% hike compared to the current 25% increase cap.

Andreka voiced her alarm over the rising average rent in the area, which she noted has escalated to $4,000, a figure that shocked many attendees. She urged the governing body to reconsider the implications of their decisions, warning that the changes could lead to displacement of long-standing community members. \"You are dealing with people's lives here,\" she stated, calling the proposed changes prejudicial against those who have made the town their home.

Another resident, Anthony Spirito, echoed these sentiments, sharing his personal struggles with the current 5% annual rent increase, which he noted exceeds his expected salary raise. Spirito expressed fear that any compromise on rent control would further jeopardize the ability of families, including his own, to remain in Hoboken.

The meeting underscored a growing anxiety among residents about housing affordability and the potential consequences of altering rent control measures, as community members rallied to protect their rights and livelihoods in the face of rising costs.